using-git-worktrees

To create an isolated Git workspace without losing your current checkout, use Git worktrees to establish a separate branch in a new directory. This preserves your active branch state while allowing independent feature development.

Managing feature branches to prevent workspace pollution is best achieved using Git worktrees. This approach isolates new features in a dedicated directory, keeping the main repository checkout clean and untouched during development.

Git worktree isolation does work with project submodules and existing dependencies. The setup process detects linked worktrees and submodules, then safely installs required dependencies within the isolated workspace before development begins.

To set up a Git worktree and verify the project baseline, create the isolated workspace using native worktree tools or Git commands. The system then runs project-specific test commands to report if the baseline passes successfully.

You should use Git worktrees for feature development instead of standard branching to maintain multiple working directories simultaneously. This prevents context switching between branches and ensures current implementation work remains isolated and independently testable.

Limitations of using Git worktrees for repository isolation include requiring native worktree support or a local Git installation. Additionally, complex repository layouts with existing linked worktrees require careful detection to avoid directory conflicts.